What Happens During Your Annual Fire Extinguisher Inspection

Annual fire extinguisher inspections aren't just a box to check—they're required by NFPA 10 (the fire extinguisher code) and required by Tennessee state law. Here's exactly what happens during the process, step by step.

What Gets Checked During an Inspection?

Pre-Inspection Preparation

• Technician brings equipment, parts, and tags
• You provide extinguisher list, access, past reports
• Schedule access to locked areas
• Designate point of contact for questions

Step-by-Step Inspection Process

1. Visual External Examination

• Check for physical damage, rust, or corrosion
• Verify proper mounting and height
• Confirm clear access and proper signage
• Inspect hose, nozzle, and gauge condition

2. Instruction Label Check

• Ensure operating instructions are legible
• Verify proper extinguisher type for location
• Check that rating labels are intact and correct

3. Tamper Seal and Safety Pin Inspection

• Confirm tamper seal is unbroken
• Check safety pin is properly installed
• Look for signs of previous tampering or use

4. Weight Verification (CO2 Units Only)

• Weigh CO2 extinguishers on calibrated scale
• Compare to manufacturer specifications
• Mark for recharging if weight is low

5. Hose and Discharge Assembly

• Inspect hose for cracks, damage, or blockages
• Check nozzle condition and attachment

Documentation Process

New Inspection Tag

Each extinguisher gets a new tag showing:

• Date of inspection
• Technician's name and certification number
• Company name and license number

Service Report

You'll receive a detailed report including:

• Complete inventory of all extinguishers
• Condition assessment for each unit
• List of any deficiencies found
• Recommendations for repairs or replacements

What Gets Flagged for Repair

Common Issues Found

• Low pressure requiring recharging
• Damaged hoses or nozzles
• Corroded mounting brackets
• Expired units past service life
• Wrong extinguisher type for hazard

Immediate Concerns

Some problems require immediate attention:

• Pressure gauge in red zone
• Broken safety pins or seals
• Visible agent leakage
• Structural damage to cylinder

How Long Does a Fire Extinguisher Inspection Take?

Typical Timeframes

• Small office (5-10 units): 30-60 minutes
• Medium building (20-50 units): 2-4 hours
• Large facility (100+ units): Full day or more

Scheduling Tips

• Plan for potential equipment downtime during NFPA 10 compliance checks
• Coordinate access to restricted areas
• Allow time for minor OSHA-required repairs on-site

On-Site Repairs vs Shop Service

What Can Be Done On-Site

• Recharging dry chemical extinguishers
• Replacing hoses and nozzles
• Installing new gauges
• Basic cleaning and adjustment

What Requires Shop Service

• Internal maintenance (6-year requirement)
• Hydrostatic testing
• Major cylinder repairs

How Much Does a Fire Extinguisher Inspection Cost?

Costs vary depending on how many extinguishers you have and the results of the inspection. However to give you a ballpark estimate here's what goes into the cost:

• Service Call: $100–200 (covers technician travel)
• Annual Inspection + Tag: $8–15 per extinguisher
• Certified Pre-Owned Extinguishers: $60-80 per unit
• New Extinguishers: $150+ each if units are expired or damaged

What Happens If My Fire Extinguisher Fails Inspection?

Units failing NFPA 10 requirements receive immediate red tags and must be repaired or replaced. Your OSHA compliance depends on maintaining working fire protection during repairs.

Post-Inspection Follow-Up

Review the Report

• Check that all extinguishers were inspected
• Understand any recommendations made
• Plan budget for needed repairs/replacements
• Schedule follow-up work if needed

Update Your Records

• File the inspection report safely
• Update facility management system
• Note any changes in extinguisher locations
• Plan for next year's inspection

Quality Assurance

Signs of Good Service

• Thorough documentation
• Professional appearance and conduct
• Clear explanation of any problems
• Prompt completion of promised work

Red Flags

• Rushed inspections (less than 2 minutes per unit)
• Missing or incomplete documentation
• High-pressure sales tactics for replacements
• Unlicensed or uncertified technicians

Annual inspections following NFPA 10 standards are your best defense against equipment failure during emergencies. They're also required by OSHA and Tennessee law.

Need your annual inspection scheduled? Contact Ironclad Fire for certified fire extinguisher service in the greater Nashville, Tennessee area.